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Winter Trails Day Jan. 8

Skiing and snowshoeing opportunities will be available for all visitors of Maplelag Resort next Saturday. (Submitted photo)

Outdoors enthusiasts will find plenty to do to celebrate National Trails Day Saturday, Jan. 8.

But if you're not in the mood for some skiing or snowshoeing, indoor activities are planned by the Laurentian Lakes Chapter of the North Country Trail Association to satisfy everyone.

Winter Trails Day is one of the biggest events the Laurentian Lakes Chapter holds every year and this year, it will be at the Maplelag Resort in Callaway.

Ray Vlasak, president of the chapter, said the group often gets out on the trail for hiking and skiing, but this is the time of year to hold an annual meeting that explains what the chapter and North Country Trail are all about.

Visitors can arrive at Maplelag for skiing and snowshoeing beginning at 9 a.m. before the indoor activities take place starting at 3 p.m.

From 3 to 6 p.m., there will be a silent auction featuring unique local artisans' products. All proceeds will go toward building, maintaining and promoting the North Country Trail.

Then at 3:15 p.m. visitors can watch the University of Minnesota documentary "Troubled Waters." The 55-minute presentation will showcase the Mississippi River and issues associated with pollution.

At 4:15 p.m. a 20-minute presentation about the North Country Trail will highlight some of its unique aspects and familiarize those who don't know much about the projects associated with it. It will be followed by a slideshow featuring trail activity.

The 65-member chapter will have its business meeting at 5:15 p.m. before a family style dinner is be served at the Maplelag Resort at 6:30 p.m.

The cost of the event is $25 for the outdoor, indoor activities and dinner. Admission for just skiing and snowshoeing is $15.

Reservation is required for dinner. To RSVP, please contact Vlasak at 218-573-3243 as soon as possible.

The Laurentian Lakes Chapter is responsible for developing and maintaining the North Country Trail from the intersection of the Nicollet and Eagle Scout Trails in Itasca State Park through Clearwater County to the Becker-Otter Tail County border near Frazee.